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Tele-Optometry: A Practice Still Waiting to be Discovered

Vision Science Academy

Amrit Jha, M. Optom

Global Optometrist and Clinical Tutor, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Liberia, West Africa

 

In just one generation-from Millennials to Gen Z-we have moved from wired telephones and black-and-white keypad phones to AI-powered smartphones. As the internet and AI bring the world closer, optometrists must also evolve to provide smarter, faster care from anywhere, at any time.

This blog highlights the urgent need for tele-optometry, showing how it could shape the future of vision care for practitioners, students, and patients.

Why Traditional Optometry Alone Is No Longer Enough

Globally, and particularly in India, uncorrected refractive errors remain a leading cause of visual impairment. (1) Regular eye examinations are essential for good vision, but rural and remote populations face limited access due to shortages of Optometrists and clinics. (2)

Over half of global Optometrists are over 45 and nearing retirement. Yet, one Optometrist serves an average of 23,200 people-far from the ideal 1:10,000 ratio-with South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa lagging. (3) This shortage and uneven distribution of eye care professionals represent a major global public health challenge.

Tele-Optometry: More than Video Consultation

Tele-Optometry is a rapidly growing field that allows eye examinations, vision checks, prescriptions, and basic consultations to be conducted online, without the patient needing to visit a clinic in person. (3) It makes eye care easier for everyone, especially older adults, people with disabilities, and those living in remote areas.

Barriers Slowing Global Adoption of Tele-Optometry

A survey across India among Optometrists revealed that while 83% were aware of tele-optometry, only 20% had received formal training, and just 24% were familiar with online platforms. About 84% felt it benefits Optometrists. However, tele-optometry faces broader barriers beyond training. Many noted it is not suitable for all patients or eye conditions, particularly retinal disorders and emergencies, and only 31% believed it could fully replace traditional care. (3)

Global regulatory gaps weaken Optometry, as some countries like India, Nepal, France, Portugal, and Kenya lack formal regulation and the title “Optometrist” is unprotected, allowing unqualified individuals to use it, which limits professional standards and slows the adoption of tele-optometry. (4)

Tele-Optometry and Tele-Refraction Reliability

Studies show that tele-refraction closely matches in-person Optometry. Spherical correction agreed in 84.6% of cases, spherical equivalent in 81%, with a mean difference of only 0.11 D. Best-corrected visual acuity matched in 82% of eyes, and 74% of cylindrical axes were within 10 degrees, demonstrating its reliability. With guidance from a remote Optometrist, tele-refraction can also help address the shortage of eye care professionals in underserved areas. (5)

 

Figure 1: This image shows the modern tele-optometry setup and practice.

Image Courtesy: https://unsplash.com/photos/doctor-consulting-patient-via-video-call-on-laptop-EVX9pt2dD1o

 

Conclusion

Clear tele-optometry guidelines remain limited, but inclusive policies can expand quality eye care access. Tele-ophthalmology supported by tele-optometrists enables remote services, reduces workforce shortages, and creates new employment opportunities while reducing costs for patients and practitioners. Though not a full replacement, it is vital for accessible, efficient global eye care, bridging gaps and delivering vision worldwide. (6)

 

References

  1. Burton, M. J., et al. (2021). The Lancet Global Health Commission on global eye health: Vision beyond 2020. The Lancet Global Health, 9(4), e489–e551.
  2. De Souza, N., et al. (2012). The role of optometrists in India: An integral part of an eye health team. Indian Journal of Ophthalmology, 60(5), 401–405.
  3. Rathore, P., Kunde, A., Narvekar, H. N., & Naik, V. S. (2025). Knowledge, attitude, and perception about teleoptometry among optometrists in India. Indian Journal of Ophthalmology, 73(11), 1704-1705.
  4. Gammoh, Y., Morjaria, P., Block, S. S., Massie, J., & Hendicott, P. (2024). 2023 Global survey of optometry: defining variations of practice, regulation and human resources between countries. Clinical Optometry, 211-220.
  5. Kapur, N., Sabherwal, S., Sharma, P., Nayab, J., Koh Pei Chen, P., Srivastava, S., & Majumdar, A. (2024). Assessing the reliability of tele-refraction for real time consultation with a remote optometrist. PLoS One, 19(6), e0299491.
  6. Massie, J., Block, S. S., & Morjaria, P. (2022). The role of optometry in the delivery of eye care via telehealth: a systematic literature review. Telemedicine and e-Health, 28(12), 1753-1763.

 

 

About the Author

Amrit Jha

Global Optometrist and Clinical Tutor

LV Prasad Eye Institute, Liberia, West Africa

 

 

 

 

 

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